What is Forane® HTS 1233zd?
Introducing Forane® HTS 1233zd: A Next-Generation Refrigerant for Low-Pressure Applications
Arkema has officially begun manufacturing and selling Forane® 1233zd at its Calvert City, KY facility. This tech tip introduces the HTS (Heat Transfer Substance) grade of Forane® 1233zd and highlights why it’s a strong candidate for modern centrifugal chiller applications.
A Quick Look Back
Forane® 1233zd is produced in two grades:
FBA (Foam Blowing Agent) – for use in insulation foam manufacturing
HTS (Heat Transfer Substance) – for HVACR applications
Both grades are chemically identical, but the HTS grade is refined to meet or exceed AHRI 700 specifications and is UL listed, making it suitable for use in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
What Makes Forane® 1233zd HTS Stand Out?
- Single-component HFO (HydroFluoro-Olefin)
- Ultra-low GWP of 1
- ASHRAE A1 classification – non-flammable and low toxicity
- High efficiency and low pressure, ideal for centrifugal chillers
- Boiling point: 64.9°F (18.3°C)
This refrigerant is already in commercial use, with several major OEMs designing systems around it.
Application Fit: A Modern Alternative to R-11 and R-123
Forane® HTS 1233zd is designed for new systems in applications where R-11 and R-123 were once common. While it’s not a retrofit option for those refrigerants, it offers a similar pressure/temperature profile and high efficiency—making it a great fit for centrifugal chillers and other low-pressure systems.
Packaging Considerations
Unlike R-11 and R-123, which were typically sold in drums, Forane® HTS 1233zd has a slightly higher pressure that exceeds DOT limits for drum storage. As a result, it is sold in cylinders. Arkema is actively developing specialized cylinders to improve delivery rates, addressing technician concerns about slow charging speeds due to the refrigerant’s low pressure.
Material and Oil Compatibility
Forane® HTS 1233zd is compatible with most materials commonly used in HVACR systems, including:
- Gaskets and elastomer seals
- Filter-driers
- A wide range of compressor oils
Its broad oil compatibility gives OEMs and system designers greater flexibility, but it’s still important to follow manufacturer recommendations for oil type and viscosity to ensure long-term compressor reliability.
Why Consider Forane® HTS 1233zd?
- High efficiency for energy-conscious designs
- Ultra-low environmental impact
- Non-flammable and safe to handle
- Simple to use – no glide, no blend behavior
- Flexible oil compatibility
Forane® HTS 1233zd offers a well-balanced solution for OEMs, distributors, and contractors looking for a next-generation low-pressure refrigerant that meets today’s performance and environmental standards.
Need more info? Reach out to your Forane® team for technical support, product availability, or help integrating Forane® HTS 1233zd into your systems.